IHMT NOVA chaired the 1st International Scientific Conference on Cancer of the PALOP countries, held as part of the 2nd Southern Regional Hospital Congress in Benguela, Angola, on 25–26 September 2025. This initiative proved to be of great importance for strengthening scientific cooperation and public health within the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP).
Professor Filomeno Fortes, Director of GHTM | IHMT NOVA, officially represented the institution, highlighting its strategic role in producing and disseminating scientific knowledge, providing advanced training, and promoting global health policies. Fátima Nogueira, professor and researcher from VBD-GHTM Research Group, also participated, reinforcing IHMT NOVA’s commitment to research and international collaboration.
The conference focused on infectious carcinogens, including bladder cancer (Schistosoma haematobium), liver cancer (hepatitis B and C viruses), cervical cancer (human papillomavirus, HPV), and stomach cancer (Helicobacter pylori). Discussions also emphasised the impact of HIV on the immune system and its association with multiple cancer types, underscoring the need for integrated prevention and response strategies.
The meeting concluded with the approval of a letter of recommendations to the CPLP Executive Secretariat and Member States, reaffirming the urgency of coordinated and sustained public health actions.
Through this presidency, IHMT NOVA reinforces its commitment to excellence in research, training, and international cooperation in clinical, biomedical, and global health, consolidating its position as a leading institution supporting public health policies in CPLP countries.
